India and China have withdrawn troops from two tense standoff points along their disputed Himalayan border.
“This withdrawal follows a significant agreement reached last week, aimed at reducing the prolonged military standoff in the Ladakh region”, Indian defense official says.
India and China have a shared history of conflicts for this border. The contested border stretches approximately 4,000 kilometers along the Himalayan mountains. This rugged boundary caused many clashes and hostilities between the two populous nations.
In these ongoing clashes, 20 Indian and four Chinese soldiers lost their lives during violent confrontations about four years ago.
India and China, having advanced nuclear powers, took this step to minimize the tensions that have impacted their relationship for the past four years.
The disengagement process was started in the last week. Now the withdrawal process is almost completed. Officials are verifying the withdrawal of troops to ensure both sides have met their commitments.
After the withdrawal soldiers from India and China will exchange sweets. This will be a symbolic gesture marking the renewed cooperation. Both nations plan to resume joint patrolling of the border soon after ground commanders agree on the final steps and logistics.
Overall the withdrawal of troops will prove an important initiative for improved political and economic ties between India and China.
